One of my most curious discoveries of Cross-Country Skiing was the sound your skis make behind you.. you could be convinced someone is following you. This poem sprang from that feeling of someone “lurking” behind, the lengthening shadow as it comes around and stands in front of you while you finish your route.. and the…
“The physiotherapist instructed absolutely no cycling, even the elliptical machines are too much wear on my knee joints,” I lamented to my chiropractor, “It’s into the pool I guess.” Much laughter ensued as Robin ensured me that I was soon going to gain tons of weight due to my lack of exercise and the Life…
I love this! I work in sport education, and most of our students are athletes. We intentionally take them swimming because it requires such a different kind of skill (and level of fitness!) than pretty much any other sport, and most of them flounder like you wouldn’t believe at first… I used to really hate swimming myself but once I got the rhythm and movement properly dialed in, I really enjoy it 
And I think bacon in this dip would be totally worth the extra lap!
Exercise always makes me hungry too!!!
PRICELESS!!!!! Well, maybe you know I used to be a long distance runner, and flirted with the idea of doing a triathlon one day. Except, except, except, I cannot swim to save my life! I am a horrible swimmer and will never understand the “relaxing” aspect of the activity. I am in full fledged panic when I go into a swimming pool, and have been on the receiver side of many dirty looks from real swimmers.
Ok, now I must go back and read the recipe…. he, he, he…..
Something about swimming always makes me hungrier than any other activity!! I was so with you all the way in describing your stepping into swimming! I would also get all the gear, hey why not go all into it, right? And then check all around and feel like all eyes are on you!! good for you Barb! Can’t wait to hear more!!
I too am ID’d as the person most likely to drown. Good luck with your new exercise routine. My hubby is swimming three times weekly and has developed some nice new arm muscles.
Oh smidge, I am right there with you! When I did my back awhile ago I had to go use a kick board in a pool to try and recover. No other exercise allowed. But let me put that in context – in Australia – in summer. NO ONE needs a kick board. We can all swim, we’re made to learn. I can swim too, but was so broken at this point that even the life guard came up to me and asked if I wanted some goggles because I must of looked so uncoordinated. Humbling times
Good for you Barbara, you go girl! When I travelled for work I would always squish my swim suite into my suitcase because it was an easy workout and I didn’t have to waste space for runners!
That dip sounds great, I’ve got to get out and try it.
Sorry to hear about your knees, Barb. Good on you for braving the pool ! That bit about the pressure of the goggles had me laughing out loud – I think everyone’s experienced that at some point or another.
As for the haloumi dip – I have never tried haloumi like that before (always pan fried slices of it and love the salty, chewy, almost squeaky texture of it) and it looks delish !
Hope your knees feel better! The dip looks delicious.
I am sure you looked HOT in that bathing suit!! I NEED to get one myself because I want to start swimming more!! I remember swimming a lot as a kid and being FAMISHED after, thankfully my dad always packed snacks for when we were done!
I’m so proud of you!!! Courage and resilience. If you are worried about being sighted – wear sunglasses! Works for me….
A few good laughs this one gave me!
Oh Barbara, I had good old chuckle with this post. Enjoy that pool time
Swimming is such a wonderful activity my friend, I’m sure you shall enjoy it
And gosh it DOES make everyone hungrier!
What a delicious dish!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Way to go, Barb! That walk. That long, lonely walk from the locker room to the pool has kept many a potential Olympic athlete from entering the pool and realizing their potential. Not you, however. You did it and you’ve got a little less than 4 years before the World’s athletes converge on Rio. You’ll be there, too, if only you remember you own words, “Be at one with the water.”
I used to swim every morning before my little one was born. it is really the best thing one could ever do for one’s body (and mind). you’re soon gonna be a skilled swimmer and, if not, your body will be thankful anyway. lovely dipp!
Haloumi dip sound interesting, that must be so good
Like many of your readers, I used to swim every morning before work. Now I don’t, even though I now have a pool, and I’m so much happier:)
congratulations dear barbara! trust your inner-self and you’re going to love swimming. i used to be a swimmer & a female water-polo player till the early 90′s. now residing in my hellenic island i still practice sea swimming for at least 1 hr almost every day of the year (with the exception of the winter months here, aka dec-mar) and i love it! i am quasi sea-born and i enjoy among other sea beauties that one http://zazaseacow.wordpress.com/2012/06/16/10/ !
i ‘ll try your mediterranean-flavored dip! appreciated! lov gina!
Compared to any other sport I have done, swimming makes me the most hungry. I do not know if it the extra calories spent by me shivering in the water as it is always so cold or the fact I need to really concentrate on rhymic breathing to get me through the laps but I am starving at the end. If this dip was at the other end of the pool I would swim faster to get to the end. Take care of your knees, we only get one set! BAM
Swimming is good for the whole body – every little muscle get their share! Was school champion in medley – was swimming and swimming and swimming for years – then I stopped … and I have never got the urge back. Just like with my reading. It’s the best exercise you can give yourself and all ages will befit from it – and look at the bodies on all swimmers – magical. You will lose weight and be trimmed. Glad you found something that you enjoy and look forward to do. Sweet Harissa Corn and Halloumi Dip, something completely new for me – but I will put on file … have to use tinned corn. Visit Commander’s Palace when I visited New Orleans – great place.
That was so funny, Smidge. Swimming really is the greatest leveler – everything is revealed and all is there for everyone to see. And if that’s not bad enough, then you have to wear a cap and goggles. I have new goggles that dig so tightly into my face that when I get out, for the next four hours, I have huge bags under my eyes. This swimming business can really age you. But, like you, it’s the best exercise and good for old joints! I did a squad swim this morning at 6.15 in the fast lane! The lane was full of boof-head blokes and I had a horrible time. Every time I turned my head to take a breath a tidal wave would smack me in the face and choke me. After the lesson I told the instructor I wanted a lane set aside for the mummies! xx
Barbara your description of you swimming made me laugh out loud! Brilliant post. And fab recipe.
Good luck with the swimming–and the Halloumi Dip looks delicious
You can do anything you set your mind to! I believe in you And great recipe there.
Yes I’m laughing Smidge, but laughing WITH you ! And I’m jealous you can wear fins in the pool, not something we can do here. But you’ll get there, practice and patience my friend !
And I’m drooling at the dip, just love Harissa, but genius of you to add sweetcorn and haloumi….. look slike I need to do some laps
It does require a completely different subset of physical skills and abilities.. I hope I get that rhythm eventually!
It used to be the chocolate bar from the vending machine with my locker money when I was a kid:)
Wow.. I didn’t know you were a runner, good on you!! I can’t run and swimming is my only hope, lol, now that I can’t bike. How do they make this look so easy??
I’m going back in this morning, it’s just got to get easier, right;)
Now, that would be nice if I develop those!! I never thought of that!
I hope your back is better now?? Maybe we should just sit down, take a breath and eat a muffin:D
That’s a great idea.. there’s always a pool in the hotel that no one seems to use. xx
I’ve read about it in a lot of recipes.. it’s definitely a different cheese than I’m used to. I was worried it wouldn’t get “melty” but it did eventually:)
Thanks:) xx
I love you.. seriously, hot wouldn’t be the best adjective though:D You should swim.. you could be a triathlete!!! What fun!!! I wish I’d done that at your age!!
Hahaha.. I could be “that lady” in the pool with tinted goggles, lol!
I’m so glad.. we need a few more laughs, eh?
I’m headed there again today.. try, try again!
Soo hungry.. maybe one of your chocolate treats would work next time:D
Hahaha.. we should write a joint blog post one day, you’re hilarious! I need one of those robes with the hood..Four years and counting! But I would be lucky to be in the Level Two class at the pool by then:D
Oh, just imagine the lovely swishing sounds your little baby must have heard:D
I think I would add a little more cheese/mayonnaise.. it was good, but I like my dips a little creamier:)
You do have a pool, your very own, but I suspect it’s quite cold there this time of year:D What if one heated it the pool to a high temperature, it might be more tempting then:)
Wow, there are so many proficient swimmers out there! How awesome is that, water-polo!! You swim in the sea? Doubly awesome! I’m off to check out your link!
I know.. what is it?? I think maybe the shivering?? Or those vending machines.. I always got to spend my locker money when I was through for the day. Yes.. the question is, do I have both knees repaired at once, so it’s over with?? xx
A champion!! Wow, good for you!! Maybe they just tuckered you right out! Sometimes we don’t want to go back to things we did too much of, eh? I hope I get trimmed but I guess my knees will be better for it. I think tinned corn would work as long as it was drained and patted dry? xx
Yes.. I had those “rings” around my eyes too, lol! I’m so impressed that you swim, it’s so difficult, just accidentally give those blokes a “whip kick” in the thigh when you go past, that might help:D I hope you get a mummies lane. We have slow, medium and fast.. no man would be caught dead in the slow lane, lol!
Glad I gave you a laugh, Rhoda!
Thank.. I’m headed there today again, I need the luck!
Haha, thanks, I’ll remember that when I jump in this morning! A whole crowd of bloggers cheering me on:D
Those fins were brilliant, I couldn’t believe how fat I could go!! I’ve never used Harissa before, it took me this long to find a store that even carries it, lol!
I have a recipe for Harissa if you like……
I had a bad fall at work .. 2008 and I hit my knee very bad – it was aching for nearly 2,5 year and suddenly one morning I woke up and no pain. It was visceral ligaments and there is nothing to do then wait for it to heal by itself – didn’t believe them, but they were right. I hope it will work for you with the swimming. I really do. The water makes the movements more soft on our ligaments.
Smidge you cracked me up, over and over, with this one! This is a piece of some very colorful, comical, tickle-the-bones writing! I LOVED it, so much it needed three readings! 
and with each reading, different parts amused me most! (you are one very brave woman to put on a speedo under flourescent lighting with eyes open! No, that would be ME being brave – you on the other hand were probably “designed” for thing!!) And your “other” dip – that’s a winner too! Great great post! Thank you! xx
I commend you on your courage! I was a competative swimmer years ago, and for while in the not so distant past I competed in long distance open water swims – 1-3 miles… It’s all about efficiency. PM me if you want, there are some good resources to help.
I agree I am always famished afterwards!
Yum, that dip looks so delicious, sounds like you’ve earned it. Great post!
Make sure to find out how often they chlorinate, my friend acquired some weird rash from a very high end hotel in Toronto.
Eeewww!! My daughter used to work there, so I believe they’re fairly diligent.. but I’m going to ask!!
I wish it were so.. I have a knee repair in my not-too-distant future I’m afraid. Just trying to get strong enough for it:) I’m glad yours worked out on its own!
Good god, it is a humiliating experience to try a new sport. Well, I did make it to Seniors level in Elementary School, but I’m a pathetic swimmer to say the least. I got a few tips this morning.. so I’m feeling optimistic:D xx
What is PM? I would love some resources! I got a tip from the lifeguard on duty today. I’m so impressed that you were swimming competitively!!
I’m not sure if I’ve earned it.. but I always seem to crave chocolate afterwards;)
“nothing is more humbling than trying to wedge a middle-aged, 100+ pounds of tepid colored flesh into a tiny black-bottomed spandex swimsuit” – I could not help but put myself in that same scenario. If I had to sport a speedo these days I would never be able to exhale as I strolled a faux-confident and pasty white walk of shame to the poolside. If my knees go, and they likely will, I am just going to have to be the fat guy at the bar bragging that at least I dont smoke. This post is so good. I am waiting on the book
Hahaha.. What happens if the bar is by/in the pool??
I love it! I too recently tried swimming again and swore I would get right back in after splashing about for what was only a half hour. It has been two months! Oops!
The soup looks delish!
Sorry to hear about your injury I hope that it gets sorted soon. I enjoyed your swimming story – I am afraid to put my head in the water when I swim as I have never mastered the art of breathing and swimming!
Your description is so lively, you really brought it all to life. It made me miss swimming. I haven’t done it for years, but it would be fun again. I’m glad you enjoyed it so much and hope that you continue to do so. H xxx
This was hilarious, I love it! I used to love swimming as a kid but I haven’t been back as an adult – I’m not sure whether to be encouraged or put off my this post
I hope the swimming will do the job for you and that you will get your knee repaired. You’re still young.
Hahaha, oh, I know that feeling. The first time I put swimming goggles on I thought my eyeballs were gonna get sucked out of my head. It was a terrible feeling!!
Love the look of the dip! Did you ever try making your own harissa? I make a version which isn’t quite traditional, but I prefer it to the regular stuff. I use Antillean habanero chillies which are fantastically fragrant which makes for a beautiful aroma and flavour… I posted it on my site some time ago if you wanted to take a look
Your knees might be shot, Smidge, but it’s nice to see you hanging on to your sense of humour. I have no room to mock- I cannot ride a bike and I swim even more inefficiently than you. Maybe bread would have fewer calories then corn chips? Just a thought, and almost certainly wrong!
You are hilarious Smidge! This sounds like a delicious recipe, perfect for and “after pool” party.
Have fun tomorrow
Absolutely! It’s been a couple of years, but backs are funny things. I have to stay on top of looking after it. But you know what has helped – owning a kitchen aid! (I’m not joking!). Hope you recover fast soon x
I think back are, indeed, tricky, it’s good to be careful now.. so you won’t be in my “boat” at my age:D
Beats me… still, I find the triathlon an amazing feat, even if it’s not the Iron Man, it’s still a lot of fun and very challenging. IN my next life, count me in
(seriously, though, I wish you the best on your recovery. ONe of the reasons I cannot run a marathon anymore is a knee injury, mainly self inflicted from…. well, from being me!)
Oh, this was so funny! Although I’m not a swimmer, and certainly not an athlete, I can relate to your story of struggling into your bathing suit, having recently bought a Spanx to, shall we say, add more sleekness to the lines of a dress I wore to a wedding. Good luck with the swimming, and good for you! I’m feeling very challenged to get back to exercising, and I don’t quite know why (maybe because I’d rather blog?). But, if I had a dish of that dip waiting for me afterwards, I think I’d be motivated to have a session on the treadmill!
I used to love to swim! Unfortunately, I was so uncoordinated that I, too, was quickly ID’d as the one most likely to drown. In school, when I took the swimming classes, they soon had me teaching the beginners — figured it was safer to keep me in the shallow end where they didn’t have to watch my every (uncoordinated) move!
Sorry to hear about the knees. Right there with you on that. But, this dip, very intriguing. I love corn, so it’s sounding like something I need to make.
Oops is right.. but you have been hiking lots:D
I’m fine.. I’ve had bad knees my whole life.. they’re just starting to complain now:D I don’t know why.. years of running and aerobics.. maybe that’s what did it;)
You should jump back in! I went again this morning and am starting to just love it!! It’s so much more meditative than upstairs in the gym!
Haha, definitely feel encouraged, I’m probably as bad as it gets, lol! You’d probs do much better!
You know I never have.. I’m going to take a look at your recipe. Where do you buy those Antillean chillies?? Are they dried, in a jar or fresh?? They sound amazing!
Yes.. the way things are going, the humour is all that’s going to be left;D I vote for the bread.. it would be yummy right about now!
I did ok this morning, a life guard gave me a few pointers on my front crawl and things are going a bit better:)
I was thinking it was a lot like Spanx.. I forgot my flip flops on deck and had to pull a wet swimsuit back on to go out there.. now that was a challenge! Good grief! Blogging is very tempting.. I love it and we get to sit whilst writing:D
Hahaha, we’d get along famously then! Maybe one day we’ll be in that senior’s group together, lol!
I am trying very hard not to laugh as my backstroke is not that good either – I was swimming a lot at one stage for my shoulder. I used the aqua pool instead of the training pool so that no-one would see me Good luck and have fun!
Barbara, put your surgery off as long as possible if you need knee replacements. Recovery is not exactly a piece of cake. Original equipment is always best. Take care of yourself.
A private message, an email;. i don’t see an address here for you
then that will be a good day
Oh.. just click on the envelope.. or bjbamber@shaw.ca works:)
I have discovered a surgeon who corrects by moving the muscles back in place.. I agree, having fewer “spare parts” is the way to go. I’m waiting for my appointment with her.. xx
There’s no hiding in this pool, thankfully, most have a big ego and don’t want to go in the “slow” lane:D
Well done Smidge, you’ll be doing flip turns in no time! Every time I go swimming my stomach gets a workout from the dressing room to to pool (and back).
Best wishes and take care of yourself!
Your chiropractor sounds like she has a great sense of humour too. I laughed out loud reading through the entire post. I am sure you will be swimming the fast lane pretty soon. Sure hope the water helps your knee.
That dip is just what’s needed after a swim.
Great read! You are brave. I was just thinking the other day that I have not owned a bathing suit in at least ten years (though I can swim rather well, if I may say so myself – my father was an instructor at some point)… and promised myself I never would. Though reading this I can imagine being in the water again. Funny how we perceive our bodies upon entering middle age. I exercise every day, yet feel quite unfit for a bathing suit. On another note, I’ve been playing tag with so many blogs that I am afraid I’ve missed stopping here for a while. May I ask? Knee injury?
Yes to jumping back in! ps. I love harissa so this is fantastic.
It’s such a sad comment on body perception for sure.. and I’m as guilty as the next person. I hope you pick up a suit and just jump in, it’s not as bad as I thought:) No recent knee injury.. just hip pain that must be a secondary pain to an old knee issue. Time catches up with us!!
Robin is hilarious.. he has me laughing from the minute I get there until I leave. It’s a highlight of my day, which is awesome considering he puts me through a lot of pain while he’s making me laugh:D I think the swimming will be great. xx
I’ve never been much of a swimmer, so I give you huge credit for taking the plunge and going for laps. I don’t know that I could complete one lap! Sounds like it felt great to get in and moving though. Fabulous recipe too. It does sound like it would be good with bacon.
You’re Aquawoman! I knew there was something really special about you…
Or the six pack of Michael Phelps?!
British Columbia is home to a 600 km system of abandoned railway beds.. this is heaven for anyone looking for a gentle but adventurous spin. We cycled the Myra Canyon section, located just off McCulloch Road in Kelowna, BC (aptly named after Andrew McCulloch, who began construction of the railway system in 1910). The Kettle…
Love that first photo and I saw those pearls at a local grocers recently but now I have to remember which store!
This is one gorgeous tart, Barbara. I want to take a bite right off of my screen, but I would be so disappointed if I did. I haven’t made my first tomato tart of 2012 yet, but it will be soon.
Lovely post – such dramatic scenery! And a delicious tart to finish the day. Perfect.
Wonderful post (as always!). I really enjoy riding my bicycle on rail trails, and this one looks spectacular. I’ll have to put it on my list of places I want to ride someday.
The tart looks spectacular too.
Your poetical spirit captured me;
Beautiful photographs were a visual travel;
and finally this amazing recipe made me hungry
Thank you dear Barbara, as always it was the best post!
Love, nia
How did your new bike ride on your journey? Great little adventure with a great little ending. I love fresh mozzarella on my pizza and heirloom tomatoes are in my dreams. I am heading back to the States at the end of this week and I can’t wait to bite into a real homegrown juicy tomato. I love the your tomato rainbow. Take Care, BAM
How gorgeous! Both the journey and the tart.
It sounds like a wonderful place for a bike ride – I haven’t come across the word trestle bridges before, but I’m imagining the sound of th ewheels as they cross the boards, I’d like that sound!
And I remember those mozerella pearls, and I’m still drooling. But what a sim[ple tasty treat after a day in the saddle. Thank you!
What an outstanding ride! I too would be super nervous of going over the bridge… – think I would peddle as fast as I can to get to the other side! Sorry to hear you got hurt, even just a little.
Mandy xo
I’m definitely putting this on my list of things to do next time I’m in BC. How cool is that? I would have definitely been chicken on the first tresle bridge, but I am so glad you overcame your fear and shared the photos with us. Albeit with minor scrapes and cuts. Cuss words would have been expected and a surprise if they hadn’t happened.
That tomato tart looks incredible, Smidge, I love roasted tomatoes with bocconcini, a delightful summer dinner.
Great story, poem and recipe! That looks like a very scary ride.
I will try your tart. I bet the crust makes it!
Great poem – felt like I was on the trails too especially with the wonderful images…and tart looks amazing!
I come from a railroad family…including my husband’s occupation, so this was a delight. We have traveled by train in the U.S. and have long discussed the Canadian Railways as potential travel in our retirement. The recipe is wonderful, and as soon as my heirloom tomatoes begin in abundance, you can be sure this recipe will be on our plate. I’ve added it to my Pinterest board so I won’t forget! I really enjoy your poetry, Barbara. You reach into so many topics! Debra
That tart is positively gorgeous. I’m all drool-y! I’ve got to pin this one and get it on the table within the month! Love the sounds of a bike ride on old railways! (The Guinea Pig is in the rail business and I think he’d love it too! We’ll mark it for the next time we get up to BC. Love that they restored the trestles! They belong!) And Sorry about your bumps and scrapes Smidge! (A few aptly-sung curses can help though!) We have to remember what our mothers said and “Keep your eyes on the road, dear!” xoxox
That sounds like fun and the tart looks delicious
What an excellent use of redundant railway tracks. I am sorry to hear about your tumble from the bike. I think I would have to look straight ahead as well when crossing one of those bridges – it is good to hear that the damaged ones have been restored. Lovely images and a beautiful poem.
Barb, I’m glad you’re ok. Thank you so much for taking us on your trip with you, the scenery is amazing!!
There is so much here to love Smidge. I get lost in this one! That’s a good thing.
Your poem is such a welcome escape today, it’s beautiful. The pictures make me want to get the bike out and head to some of our trails, that also happen to be on old railway beds. What a fun, gorgeous ride you had. The more I read your posts, the more I just want to move to Canada and be done with it What a gorgeous place…..with amazing people.
Heirloom tomato tart?!?!? I’m in! Our heirlooms are just now starting to produce those beautiful little things too. It looks fantastic!
that mozerella looks so cute before it is cooked and are all the railway lines taken out? so you can ride the tracks.. how amazing.. you are so lucky and fiT!.. c
Ohhh my GODDD!! So these photos of the railway..gorgeous! I didn’t think the post could get any better. THEN I see that tomato bread thingaayy and I am drooling. That looks SO GOOD!
What a beautiful description my friend, and I absolutely love the scenery 
I have a weird love of old railroads, they always seem so romantic!
This tart looks wonderful my friend, the flavours, the cheesiness
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
I am so relieved that you are ok! I am a pathetic biker, for some reason my legs dislike biking with a passion, so I admire you for facing those tracks
beautiful poem, beautiful tomato tart, and I love, love, LOVE your new profile picture…
This sounds like a wonderful trip to make – and tart to eat!
I love love roasting tomatoes like this… especially when you use them to top a simple tart like this. Gorgeous photos from your trip!
What fantastic photos of a part of the world I have never had the chance to visit! You have captured the clement day and the storm clouds so evocatively! And then produced the wonderfully appetizing tart: just the kind of ‘twin’ post for a typical Gemini like me !
1st – the food is YUM! 2nd – what a cool place – thanks for sharing – great photos:)
What a great trail for a bike ride and I can only imagine what the other 592 km have to offer. They’d have to be really fantastic to beat this section with its 16 wooden trestles. Your photos are really quite beautiful but I bet the “real thing” is truly spectacular. And if your photography didn’t transport me to the rail beds, your poem surely did. You wanted us to get there, one way or another. And our reward? This beautiful tart. I cant wait for my tomatoes to start ripening. I may not be able to bike those trails but this tart I can and will make!
That tomato tart looks awesome! If I had that waiting for me for lunch, I bet I’d be inspired to bicycle along that trail at record speed! What a beautiful, awe-inspiring trip that must have been. Thank you for sharing and reminding me my bicycle is not meant to be left in the garage!
What a beautiful part of the world to go cycling. I would have been so in awe of the scenery I would have fallen off many more times than once! I love your images Smidge. And you even included a poem! What a complete blog post. Your heirloom tomato tart looks so delicious. What a great meal to come home to after a day out in the fresh air xx
Hi there, are you in British Columbia now ????? Canada is a stunning country … and BC is so beautiful with its mountains, lakes … ocean, vineyards. Your photos give is justice – didn’t know about the railway. Loads I don’t know about Canada really
you are far braver than I am! And that tart looks delicious
How funny, I took the pastry out of my freezer last night to make one of these today. Do hope it looks as good as yours! What a great bike ride, but so sorry to herar you fell off. Hope you´ve got plenty of arnica to rub onto those bruises 
Would have to ride a bike through the railways! and wow your heirloom tomato tart looks really pretty awesome! I can only imagine how good this must taste!
Oh my goodness…your tart makes me dream of eating “real” cheese again! And what a gorgeous meal. I had a nice conversation with Chicago John about buffalo cheese a while back. I had been mistaken thinking that it was just a name for cheese and not actually cheese made from buffalo milk. I haven’t been able to find it around here but am hoping that once I do, it will add another cheese to my list that I can eat.
Love the photos of your trail ride! We have a trail in Idaho very similar to yours. It’s called the Hiawatha Trail. We’ve ridden it twice over the past few years. Always so much fun and of course, gorgeous scenery. The only part I dread are the two tunnels that are very long and pitch black except for a tiny dot of white light at the very end. Usually one person or two in our group has a light on their bike so we can at least see right in front of us…but it doesn’t help with that claustrophobic feeling!
~ April
Reading your poem I felt as if I was there! It’s very evocative. Stunning photos, too, as always.
That cycle route looks wonderful, Barbara. Reminds me of our Camel Trail in Cornwall – full of surprises and the romance of a rail route….
So beautiful – we are going to Kelowna for an extended long weekend… will definitely bring our bikes (or rent a couple!)
Hi Barbara,
I’m passing along the Versatile Blogger Award to you! If you have won it before, I believe you can accept it again if you’d like. The details are on today’s post at my site if you need to know more. I absolutely love your work.
Wishing you every blessing,
Christina
Oh that would be such a lovely ride to do. I’d love to that!
How rugged and beautiful all at once.
That is a gorgeous and colorful tart!
Wow, that looks YUMMY! And sounds like you had a great cycling adventure!
Another fabulous post!
Glad you got to go out and use your beautiful bike! Looks like a lovely ride, though I’m not sure if i’d've gotten over the heights.
Beautiful photos! I am loving this Tomato Tart…I can’t wait to give it a try as soon as my tomatoes ripen!
The poetry is back ! Lovely lovely lovely writing as always. That tart looks spectacular – and how cute are those bocconcini balls ??
First…the pizza looks fabulous. Second and most emphatic…you rode across one of those bridges????? My hats off to you Smidge! You are a brave one. This looks like such a gorgeous ride.
Your heirloom tomato tart looks scrumptious.
Lovely photos and that tomato tart looks insanely good!
I love bike riding along old railways because they are so flat, usually, with easy grades and therefore you can see so much around you. This one looks particularly scenic and I love all the tunnels and bridges…what fun! And to come home to that lovely tart, what a perfect day!
What a trip! Gorgeous photos and you had my heart pounding – that first trestle! Feeling awfully jealous of your bike trip and your tart. Sounds like a perfect day!
This is so..so cool! I want to ride this Wow..your posts are so polished and precise. A+
I made this tart on Thursday for a potluck lunch in the department – my tomatoes were way too juicy, and the center of the tart didn’t have much chance to rise, I should probably have drained the slices over paper towels just to be on the safe side… but it tasted awesome and everyone loved it! If the pictures turned out ok, I’ll be blogging on it soon, and will give you all the credit, of course!
I am wondering if pre=baking the tart crust for 10 minutes or so and then add the toppings would help – when the tomatoes are too juicy like mine were
thanks for a great recipe, and gorgeous to boot!
(hope you are having a great beginning of weekend)
It might be worth trying if there’s so much juice in your tomato..they can sure vary. I will add this to the recipe for anyone else trying. I’m sorry it didn’t work out the best for you the first time! I’m not sure prebaking would give the tomatoes a chance to soften? But it would be worth a try!! I’m glad you made this one, I love it.. Thanks somuch:D xx
I have a mountain bike out at the lake.. but my bike would have been even more fun with it’s fat tires and comfy seat:D
I was chicken.. I think the reason I fell over at the end was because I got brave enough to look over the edge as I was riding, lol!
I think Canada should embrace having more travel via rail.. There is a line that runs from Alberta to BC that is supposed to be a wonderful ride with gorgeous views! I’m intrigued that you’re from a railroad family. My great grandfather helped to build the rails in Canada when he came over from Ireland. I should have mentioned that in my post:D
There are a few people in the rail business.. I wish more travel in Canada was done by rail, Europe seems to have figured that one out before us! xx Smidge
ps my eyes are on the road now, not the prize;)
You’re so fortunate to have an heirloom plant or two.. they would be that much sweeter than mine. xx Smidge
ps.. I’m having trouble going to your site??
They’ve replaced the lines with a boardwalk. I’m not sure what happened before the bridges burned.. perhaps the rails were removed long ago because they aren’t on the pathway sections either. xx
Thanks:D
Oh, but it was awesome! Phil went nuts for it, and didn’t think it was a problem that the center didn’t “puff”
my photos (I just checked) didn’t turn out nearly as beautiful as yours, but I think they are still “bloggable” – so it will be at the Bewitching sometime in the next 3 weeks (have a few other posts already set to publish…)
I was thinking it would be worthwhile wearing one of those little spelunking lights on my head so I could beam my way through:D ps I was trying to find a gluten free ready made puff pastry.. is there such a thing??
I was wondering as well.. one day I will do the “tour” where they pick you up at the end. That way you can cycle all the way to Penticton… now if they just added wine tastings along the way, lol, but then I’d probs fall off one of the bridges:D Thanks so much!!
My pastry didn’t “puff” as much as I expected, either, so I think you’ve found the solution:D I’m happy and humbled that you’d make and post this one! xx
I haven’t tried to make it yet because I would need to use dairy free butter and I’m not sure if it would have the same consistency. You can Google Gluten Free Puff Pastry and there are a lot of recipes and I think even special flours that you can buy. Let me know how it goes!
What an exceptional, visually pleasing blog you have created. It is so pretty and enticing. And to have a “printable copy”of the recipe available is handy AND generous. I share your recipes on FB and my friends are in awe, too. You make life nice.
I still take my hat off to you Barbara, so cool that you did it!
Thank you so much.. You’re so sweet:) xx
I love this post. The combination of travel and recipes reminds me of a David Lebovitz book.
What a magical ride, I would love to do that, fab food too, nice work.
[...] And, to top it all, everything she cooks makes my mouth water… Last month she had this tomato tart featured on her blog, and since heirloom tomatoes insist on jumping in my grocery cart, I [...]
Hi there! My husband is away and I was looking for something simple and delicious to make for myself tonight. This looks GLORIOUS! Such a beautiful blog you have! Keep up the good work!
Thank you so much, Sylvia! xx
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
Years ago, I went cross country skiing with my high school. Somehow I found myself straggling behind and before you know it I was alone. Yeah, I looked back a few times wondering who the heck was following me lol!
I’ve wanted to take my daughter to silverstar but with the current road conditions and me driving a Yaris, Not sure I want to try
so yummy bowl of chili though!
Looks like a glorious snowy day. The sky is so blue!
Chili is just the ticket (I had some turkey chili for dinner just tonight) in this weather and this looks so delicious.
Amazing trees!
How could beer not go with chilli! have you tried chilli vodka? I have mixed feelings about it – I like the heat, but it makes my head feel funny after 2 and it’s not the vodka doing that, I have hollow legs
Chocolate in chili???? Interesting but no go for me. And I was just thinking about making chili too
Used to cross country a lot but I can resist it now – too cold out there. I still have Florida blood in my veins. Beautiful pics, Barb. Where was this? You always post pictures of something that makes me hungry !!! Naughty girl !!!!!!!
Paul
Those mountain photos are gorgeous!! What a fun time with the family. This stew looks perfect to thaw out after a cold day!
I love Lion’s Winter Ale! I wish it was available year round, but then it wouldn’t be so special, I guess… Sounds like the prefect addition to chili
Your ski path is so beautiful…just breathtaking! I could spend hours out there, but I likely wouldn’t get far as I’d be snapping pics in every direction. Glad you had a great time Smidge. And your chili certainly looks warming. My two little ones would enjoy this as well albeit without too much heat.
I love the ingredient combination in this recipe
I can’t believe we’re this far into winter, and I still haven’t made chili. I’m drooling over yours!
Tenderest spring lies under… indeed. Smidge, your photos are heart-stoppingly gorgeous! And your ale chili is the perfect punctuation on a snow-filled Canadian winter’s day. Love your food styling here! What a beautiful post.
Beer in chili is one of my favorite things ever ever EVER!! Not even kidding. Yours looks AWESOMe! So jealous of all your snow and winter sporting… we’ve not had snow here in 2 years and as a former resident of Upstate NY I am jonesing hard! Gorgeous photos & recipe. Thanks!!
Gorgeous photos! I’ve never cross country skied, but I would love to take it up. There are plenty of trails in New Hampshire. Now that we’ve moved, I don’t go anywhere without my iPhone navigation! Not even a short walk. LOL Your chili sounds wonderful and I’m going to try the chocolate in mine next time.
What beautiful country! I’ve not x-country skiied in decades. Seems like a nice thing to pick back up. If it were ever to snow here!
That Chili looks so comforting and I like the idea of the beer in it.
I got goose flesh and the hairs on my neck went up as I read your poem! Ooooo!
And what exquisite refreshment along those wooded snowy trails! I haven’t eaten beef for most of my life but oh if I did, it’d be a bowl of your Winter Ale Chili! (or 2!) (and btw, your posts, the layout, the graphics, just get more and more beautiful as you go! What an artist you are Smidge!) xxo
I´m not a skier but it does look sovery beautiful. And as for a gorgeous slow cooked chili with beer…sign me up!
Fantastic! Oh, how I miss cross-country skiing…
I think a day out in the snow like this would make you very hungry and coming home to a bowl of warming chilli would be awesome, especially with a few beers. I’ve never seen such a beautiful sight as your image of the trees covered in fresh powdery snow. I would love to experience a day like you’ve just had! xx
Those views! Glorious! The chili sounds wonderful although I might dial down the heat a bit. I wonder if I can find this beer in Ontario? It sounds worth looking for!
With such beautiful surroundings, it’s quite simple to see why you return there to ski. Your daughter’s and her facial expression could easily become the poster child for long-suffering teens the world-over. To you and to her, all I can say is that this, too, shall pass.
Your chili sounds wonderful, Barb. I’ve 1 quart of of a very good chili left in my freezer and will need to make another to replenish my stock. There’s nothing like a good bowl of chili on a cold Winter’s day. Yours will be the recipe I prepare next time around. It really does sound good! Thanks for sharing — and bring a navigator with you the next time you go skiing.
Your cool chili (get it?) has attracted my wife’s attention! Great job, Barbara!
Beautiful poem…and what a beautiful spot you chose to ski….I only went once to cross country ski…when we were much younger…but I loved it….It was on a winter getaway and we just never managed to do it again….The only mishap happened after we were through and making our way back to the Inn and there was a slight incline however I did not know it was pure ice and so went flying and gave my head a crack…what an awful headache …Diane
Such beautiful sceneries. Do you get mostly powdery snow? Chili sound interesting with the addition of chocolate.
Your beautiful view and experience skiing as a family is one that you will never forget. Your poem really captures your feelings and the experience. I was injured quite badly in a ski accident and can never be on a lift again but admire your family for finding the way back home after a long day out on the slopes. Your chili sounds amazing, great flavors and so rich I can’t wait to try it. Take care, BAM
It would be hard to get lost when its that cold, love the photos
Gorgeous – as always! This chili looks like something that 2.0 and I would thoroughly enjoy – there’s nothing like a big pot of hot chili to warm your bones from the inside out.
Happy New Year!
Your poem is absolutely outstanding! And even though I’m a vegetarian, you have a way of being able to write a meaty recipe that I throroughly enjoy reading. This one looks like a real winter warmer.
I am in love with this poem. It’s beautiful, Barb!
I don’t think I’d mind getting lost on that trail at all. It’s breathtaking. Lucky girl!
Just like the scenery from the skiing. Sorry you kinda sorta got…..um….disoriented
Thank you for this delicious chilli recipe too. I think it’s just perfect for playoff games day!
I love all of this. The poem, the cross country skiing with loved ones, the chili waiting to be devoured at the end of the day.
Beautiful photos to boot.
Thank you. x
Love your chili “spices” – chocolate and cinnamon and beer – oh my!
Fabulous chili and lovely photos!
you are right: food never tastes better as after a day out in the snow. I remember how good the polenta and sausage was when eating it during our winter holidays on the mountains back in Italy. your scenery is even more beautiful and your chili hearty and nourishing. wish I could ski!
Beautiful post. The last time I went skiing was several years ago in Maggie Valley. Love everything about a ski trip. You are correct about the noise the skis make and you believe someone is behind you. Love the photos and your poem. The chili looks amazing!! I love the chocolate in the chili!!
Now those photos make me want to have snow!! What beautiful shots! And, if you knew me, I don’t ski or want anything to do with the cold! This is the perfect meal to warm up to! As always, you have just the most beautiful blog!!
I loved the scenery, as much as a Brazilian can love images of the cold… from a safe distance, from the comfort of my computer screen, but my few experiences with skiing were…. let’s say “epic”? For lack of a better word. They involved one particular descent in which this tropical human being ended entangled in one of those plastic fences, one ski gone, the other miracurously still tied to my foot. I have ZERO grace with snow boots.
Now, seriously: beautiful poem, beautiful photos, beautiful recipe.. You rock and roll, and cross country ski
It’s been years since I’ve been cross country skiing. So much fun (and tons safer than downhill!). And when you’re done you definitely want something hot and warming, like this terrific looking chili. How did you manage to pack so much flavor in this?! It looks wonderful – thanks.
The chili looks fabulous and what beautiful photos! I like to use cocoa, cinnamon and maple syrup in my chili sometimes…sooo good!
we really do live on opposite ends of the earth. Those beautiful cold pictures, just gorgeous Barbara. Tomorrow it is supposed to be 43C here….hot, damn hot. I’ll swap you a little cross country skiing in pristine snow capped woods.
Wow, that I call winter … and winter comfort food. Stunning photos .. just like I expect for find Canada this time of year. Never done cross country skiing – only alpine. That first photo with the deep blue sky .. could you send some over to me – so sick of all the rain.
Right. Part of the beauty of x-country skiing is the muffled sound in the quiet of the woods. Beautiful photos.
Your staging photography is just beautiful!!! Keep up the great work.
A wonderfully hearty dish for apés ski, Barbara. And a beer sounds great with this dish. How nice that you were able to spend such a lovely time with your children. The photos are incredible, would make a beautiful Christmas card next year.
Spectacular pictures and fabulous winter warmers, Smidge. Thanks for a really exuberant post! Glad you had such a great time!
Canada really is amazingly picturesque. Just so beautiful and white. I also agree, nothing makes you as hungry as the cold, being out doors and exercising, and a winter ale chili would be the perfect ending to that!
What an absolutely perfect chili for a day of cross-country skiing! The road you skied looks perfect and the scenery breathtaking! I’ll never forget skiing under a full moon at 2 am and seeing a huge elk clumping through the snow. Can’t see a sight like that any other way. Love the chili and the choice of ale!
Wow! the views you had were magnificent! What a sight! – beautiful blue sky over the snow-capped trees.
the recipe sounds delicious and I would imagine it to be really hearty and good on a cold winter’s day, especially after all that skiing! Love the addition of bittersweet chocolate. I can imagine the depth it adds to the dish!
Winter…when the world rests, awaiting spring’s touch. You bring beauty to our community.
Oh what a glorious day! Thank you for sharing it with us. It is many many years since I went cross country skiing and I remember it vividly, your beautiful photos have brought those memories back. xx
Perfect for a cold winter day. Love the addition of cinnamon and chocolate!
Great family shots and gorgeous snow! You have the perfect environment for family ski outings! And this recipe makes me warm just to read it. I love the addition of the ale, and although I’ve heard of beer in chili, I’ve never done it, but the bacon really surprised me! This is a must! We have a big Super Bowl family gathering in early February where everyone but me watches football…ha! I’ll volunteer to bring chili this year!
Now although I do like your creamy cake recipes it’s these meaty numbers that really attract my attention – and the photography that goes with it – you need to get a book published.
Lovely, creative, heartwarming chili and lovely winter pictures! I miss the snow here in Singapore.
Smidge, you are such a poet! I loved this! And the chili with beer and chocolate (two of my favorite things
) sounds delish and so comforting. Great photos, too!
Sounds like a wonderful and delicious way to warm up after a day of skiing.
The Chili looks fantastic! I wish I could experience skiing someday!!
Can’t decide whether the chili or the image of going up the road to the mountain is better Barbara.
Happy New Year!
Beautiful new blog/laylout! Love the poems, photos, and of course recipes. Hope all is well with you in the new year!
It’s all here – your wonderful poem, images and such a great recipe…love it
Beautiful photos as always, Barbara! Hope you’re having a great start in this new year , take care!
GORGEOUS photos!!! I love the recipe – and the new blog layout. It feels like a complete winter wonderland here. Happy Belated New Year Barb, I hope you have a fantastic 2013.
I’ve missed your beautiful picture and writing (and recipes, too!) That chili sounds amazing on a cold winter day.
lovely poem !!! wonderful photographs
Gorgeous photos of the trail and the trees!! I’m going Cross Country Skiing this afternoon and can only hope the trails look as beautiful here.